In 1996 an official Town Crier for Civic and Ceremonial duties was appointed. This followed the Summer Festival when Neil Batsford had been employed as an unofficial Town Crier and had proved very popular. A competition was organised to find a Town Crier and public auditions were held at the bandstand in the town centre. Neil Batsford was voted the winner and he became a member of the Ancient & Honourable Guild of Town Criers.

Neil, who is a member of the Burgess Hill Theatre club, ‘cries’ at Town Council events and was a finalist in the 2002 National Town Crier Championships. Neil is very popular, currently carrying out approximately 40 engagements a year, both in Burgess Hill and the surrounding area.

Neil is willing to give talks to local organisations and is available to 'cry' at many events including:

• Official Openings - Shops/Businesses

• Charity Events

• School/Church Fetes

• Weddings

• Birthdays/Anniversaries

• Master of Ceremonies

• Local Festivals/Processions